ABU DHABI // Dr Amal Al Qubaisi was on Wednesday appointed President of the Federal National Council, making her the region’s first female leader of a national assembly.
“I am proud to take this seat for the first time as a woman in the Arab world,” she said, after winning the role of President and Speaker unopposed.
“I dedicate this achievement to the great women of the UAE, and to the Mother of the Nation, Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak.”
The inauguration of the 16th FNC was led by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, who stressed to members the importance of serving the country’s citizens.
“Today your service to the UAE people has become a responsibility,” he said. “It is an obligation in front of Allah and the people of the UAE. Brothers and sisters, your council is held today and our country has become stronger, and our people more intertwined with their leaders.”
Also at the inauguration were emirates’ Rulers and Crown Princes, senior Cabinet members and the ambassadors of 80 countries.
Dr Al Qubaisi, who in 2006 became the first woman elected to the FNC, said the council had a great role to play in ensuring the UAE was competitive.
She also spoke of the Emirati soldiers fighting in Yemen as part of the Arab coalition in Operation Restoring Hope.
“We have to compete, in our nation, with the best nations out there,” Dr Al Qubaisi said.
“These are great responsibilities and we must put in our all to ensure the strengthening of our country, and the investment of all our expertise to look at developing the political role.
“Fellow members, with every great challenge we become better equipped, especially when it comes to our soldiers fighting in Yemen, and we raise our heads high in pride of them.
“We are under political responsibility, so I ask you to represent the UAE and its vision, and to continue to allow the UAE to thrive.”
The challenge of members, she said, was to “represent all Emiratis, those who voted and those who didn’t. I wish, with you, we can reach the whole emirates, to listen to them and become a part of their lives”.
Dr Al Qubaisi ended her speech by thanking those who had stood by her through her journey.
Emirati women applauded her appointment. Fatima Al Dhaheri, 30, an investment professional at a government institution, said she was not surprised that Dr Al Qubaisi was appointed the region’s first female leader of a national assembly … see more
source: thenatoinal.ae
Tags: first female leader, UAE, women
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